Top of the Lake: episode guide

A Rainbow Above Us

Episode 1.04
Written by Jane Campion and Gerald Lee
Directed by Garth Davis with Jane Campion

After the violent incident in the pub, Al Parker tells Robin he has to let her go, and she is fired. But unofficially Robin won't let go of the case. Even as she tries to process the pain of her own past, Robin carries on working unofficially on the case. She locates a friend of Tui's who refuses to speak a word to anyone. He is accused of disrespect, but Robin believes there are deeper motives at play. His silence may hold a clue to Tui's disappearance and she's determined to earn his trust.

Robin is also contacted by a pathologist who has investigated several cases for the local police. He tells Robin about additional evidence with potentially powerful implications, and she finds herself ever more committed to getting to the bottom of Tui's case.

At the same time, she begins to exhume long-buried memories with Johnno. He hints at a tragic secret from their past that could threaten the future of their relationship and her work on the case.

After a night with Johnno, Robin spots a boy in a blue hoodie heading back from the lake. They lose sight of him but Johnno reveals to Robin that he's been keeping track of the local kids' canoes, checking when they go in and out.

Dangerously taking matters into her own hands, Robin unearths a small glimmer of hope. Footage found on a mobile phone suggests Tui might still be alive.

Robin and Johnno follow the hunters and discover evidence that sends shockwaves through the investigation. Robin returns home buoyed at last by a new optimism, but she is greeted by heart-breaking news.